Newark Pro Bowler Doug Kent wins $120,000

Doug Kent, 35, earned the biggest purse in pro bowling history for winning the PBA World Championship in Toledo, Ohio.

His friends and family had a party for him Wednesday evening at his center, Doug Kent's Rose Bowl Lanes. Girlfriend Christine Beamish made the surprise arrangements. The party attracted more than 100 people and was catered by Jeff Scott's Newcadia Restaurant.

On March 3, Kent defeated Lonnie Waliczek 215-160, in the ESPN-televised title match. He previously beat Rick Steelsmith, 202-194, in the semifinals. Kent said that was the proudest day of his career. It's his fifth PBA Tour victory and second major title.

The win is Kent's fifth PBA title and second major. He won the 1991 American Bowling Congress (ABC) Masters in Toledo, Ohio, which did not count as a PBA title. Kent now owns his first jewel in the Triple Crown, which consists of the PBA World Championship, the U.S. Open and the Tournament of Champions.

The PBA World Championship was the last event for the majority of the PBA professionals. But 32 PBA bowlers will go to Virginia Beach March 9-10, for the second-annual Battle at Little Creek Invitational. ESPN will air the finals live on Sunday, March 17, from 12:30-2 p.m. Bowling enthusiasts may want to visit www.pba.com

Kent bought Rose Bowl Lanes in Newark about two years ago. Jenifer Larson and Al Smith manage the day-to-day duties at Kent's Rose Bowl Lanes when Kent and Beamish are traveling. Beamish is the general manager of Doug Kent's Rose Bowl Lanes.

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